Donald R. McGee was Saginaw’s first and most famous aviator. Donald built his own plane in 1915 and taught himself to fly after reading up on what was then available about aviation. Local residents so admired him and his accomplishments, they purchased World War I Liberty Bonds to establish a scholarship fund in memory of the former Saginaw High School star quarterback and football team captain.
Scholarship Details
- Dedicated to students interested in aviation, aviation engineering, or aerospace engineering
- Established in memory of Donald R. McGee, Saginaw’s first aviator
- Funded through community contributions and World War I Liberty Bonds
- Aimed at supporting students from the Saginaw Public School District
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a graduating senior from a school in the Saginaw Public School District
- Intended to pursue a degree in aviation, aviation engineering, or aerospace engineering
- Requires full-time enrollment in an accredited program
Application Process
- Complete the scholarship application form with all required personal and educational information.
- Submit a transcript demonstrating your scholastic record.
- Provide evidence of acceptance into an accredited aviation or engineering program.
- Write an essay detailing your interest in aviation and how you plan to follow in the footsteps of pioneers like McGee.
- Include documentation of community, school, and work involvement.
Education is vital to the growth and future of every community. Because of this, the Saginaw Community Foundation administers a variety of scholarship programs for high school, community college, university and vocational students.